Western Australian EV network completed

The 49 locations, featuring a total of 110 charging points, are located about 200 kilometres apart. Most locations have one DC charger with two CCS outlets, as well as a backup AC charger. The stations are managed by Chargefox. To charge along the WA EV network, EV drivers will need to order an RFID card or download and pay via the Chargefox app.

The WA EV network was built by Horizon Power, a state-owned electricity company, and energy retailer Synergy. The funds for the EV charging network come from the Western Australian government, which earmarked a total of 43.5 million Australian dollars (about 26 million euros) to invest in EV infrastructure.

Moreover, “some isolated locations that are difficult to connect to an existing power supply, chargers are being supported by standalone power systems, which largely draw on solar and small-scale battery storage for power.” That is the case at the Whim Creek Hotel in the Pilbara region, pv magazine previously reported. Solar panels there supply a 50 kW EV charger, for example.

“This is an exciting achievement for Western Australia that will allow households to drive our energy transition,” said Energy, Environment and Climate Action Minister Reece Whitby. “Through our investment in the WA EV Network, we have opened our State to EV drivers, who can travel from Albany to Kalbarri or Perth to Esperance without the fear of range anxiety.”

Western Australia also provides a $3,500 rebate for people purchasing an EV. According to the state government, EV registrations there more than doubled in the past financial year, reaching more than 22,000 units. There were 9,200 rebate applications totalling $32.2 million.

“The Cook Government’s Zero Emissions Vehicle rebate announced in the 2022-23 State Budget, which provides a $3,500 rebate for people purchasing new EVs is supporting motorists in making the switch,” said David Michael, Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport. “I was proud to announce in May that we had boosted the scheme with a further investment of $5.2 million.”

wa.gov.au, synergy.net.au (information on the network), synergy.net.au (media statement)